Where can I study mechanical engineering in Germany with a compulsory industry internship?

Germany is one of the best places to get industry experience during an engineering degree, because universities of applied sciences build a long internship into the course. Many bachelor programmes in English include a semester of about 20 weeks at a company. You should check each language requirement, since some programmes switch to German after year one.

Internship structure at German universities of applied sciences

Dual study and other ways to add industry experience in Germany

• Dual study programmes, such as those at Siegen and Mittweida, combine a company contract with your degree, but they usually expect strong German.
• Ask the internship office whether it helps international students find a company or leaves the search to you.
• Check tuition for non-EU students on the DAAD programme page and the university page, since fee rules vary by state.
• Confirm how the internship is recognised for credit, and whether it can be done abroad or only in Germany.
• Plan for German language progress early, since internships in smaller firms are often easier with some German.

My Advice

Pick a programme where the internship is listed as part of the course and the language of instruction matches your current level. Then contact the internship office and ask how many Indian students found placements last year, so you know what support you can rely on.

This information is available on: daad.de and uni-siegen.de